Sumeer Kumar’s Post

Related to my latest post about emotional values, a tip for doing business in China? You can consider making your products "Meng" (萌), especially if your target customers are younger generations. What is "Meng" (萌)? "Meng" describes the feeling or response people have when they encounter something adorable, sweet, or innocent. It's that warm, fuzzy feeling you get when you see a cute puppy or a baby's smile. It's similar to what "kawaii" conveys in Japanese culture, which means an affection for innocence and cuteness. The inherent charm of "Meng" (萌) in the Moomin characters significantly contributed to the popularity of our Moomin products in China. Adding extra "Meng" (萌), such as in design and product presentation, further boosts the appeal. What do you think, is 'Meng' worth considering? #china #retail #ecommerce #digitalmarketing #sales #onlineshop

Did you know these three famous brands in Japan originally came from the U.S.? 1- Lawson: From Ohio to Osaka, a story of adapting to Japan's evolving needs and trends. 2- Tower Records: Rising from bankruptcy in the U.S. to becoming a symbol of Japanese youth culture. 3- Mister Donuts: The sweet success story of how Mister Donuts tailored its offerings to win over Japan's taste buds. Let's look at their unique histories of becoming Japan's staple brands. #COVUE #BusinessinJapan #Japan #Lawson #TowerRecords #MisterDonuts

“Hi-Chew’s Journey to Global Recognition” Morinaga’s Hi-Chew candies, a beloved sweet treat in Japan since 1975, have carved a significant international presence over the years. The candy gained widespread popularity in the United States about a decade ago, starting with free samples distributed at Boston Red Sox baseball games, leading to its rapid acceptance among American consumers. Responding to this surge in popularity, Morinaga began manufacturing Hi-Chew in the U.S., and it soon found its way onto the shelves of major retailers like Walmart and Target. As part of its strategy to solidify its status as a globally recognized brand, Morinaga has revamped Hi-Chew’s packaging to reflect its international appeal. Now, Hi-Chew packets sold in Japan feature English prominently on their labels, accompanied by Japanese characters. This shift in packaging aligns with the company’s vision to be seen as a global brand, a strategy not unfamiliar in the Japanese market. Major corporations like Toyota, Sony, and Nintendo have also adopted English in their packaging and logos, signaling their international market ambitions. This move by Hi-Chew is unlikely to be perceived as a step away from its Japanese roots; rather, it is seen as an indication of the brand’s ongoing success in global markets, symbolizing its adaptability and appeal beyond Japan’s borders. #HiChewGlobal #MorinagaCandy #InternationalBranding #JapaneseSnacksWorldwide #PackagingStrategy

Power of a brand. There are no Trader Joe’s in Japan. Yet, I see the Trader Joe’s tote bag around me here in Japan. Likewise in singapore when I was visiting home a few months back. The tote bag was everywhere and much sought after. When asked why, my friends say, it’s cool! Yup, it is viewed as a status symbol. Cool and effortless style. A good example of a powerful brand, when a product/service transcends its category and becomes a symbol. One which its core consumer target wants to be associated with. Trader Joe’s have always been consistent with what it stands for, .. from the store experience, products, merchandise, customer service, employees, etc. a good example of how to build a strong brand. Consistency is key. And it was not built overnight. A lot we can learn from! I’m a big fan! #traderjoes #brandbuilding #brand #marketing

Yesterday. Yesterday.. which was January 18th, I bought this fresh orange juice from a vending machine. And the design of the cup was for Christmas. 🤣 It made me smile because of this easy-going nature in Singapore and I like it. (Or are more places the same in Southeast Asia?) In Japan, right after December 25th, all designs of products, poster ads, decorations, or whatever it is, are immediately changed. It feels like a blend of professionalism and perfectionism. But it doesn’t really matter if that's not the norm. What do you think? Do you like this easygoingness, or do you think it's a bit unprofessional to have a Christmas cup now? (By the way, I am fully aware that this is to avoid a waste.) It's a sort of cultural difference. I am Japanese living in Singapore over 6 years, posting cultural gaps. Check my small new business for corporate finance training as well. World Finance Edu #culture

🎁✨ Watch the art of gift wrapping in Japan! This woman's unique technique turns gift packing into a mesmerizing experience. Get inspired by this beautiful tradition! 🎌🎀 #GiftWrapping #JapaneseTradition #ArtOfPacking #FoodInnovation #FutureFeasts #packaginginnovation #efficiencyredefined #retailrevolution #careersuccess #innovationnation #professionaldevelopment #businessinsights #futureofwork #techtrends #networkingpower #careergrowth #industryleaders #digitaltransformation #thoughtleadership #successmindset #globalbusiness #professionalexcellence

SHOPPING IN JAPAN IS NOT FUN! It has rules 👇🏻 I heard in Japan, you are not allowed to try clothes until you cover yourself like a mummy! So even though I am not a fan of make-up, I decided to take the challenge! First, you are asked to remove your shoes. Which is almost everywhere in Japan. Do they not like shoes? Or they are angry we made the song “mera joota hai Japani” After which, I was given this. Looks like the little chaddi they give you before a massage. Covered my face and look there is a poster of shopping etiquette to follow! Now this is to make sure my make-up doesn't spoil the clothes or I’'ll be thrown out of the store. I did buy some clothes regardless of poor judgement with this N95! And the reason was something else. In Japan, when you reach the front of the billing counter. Instead of scanning each item. All you have to do is place the basket and it automatically registers all the items in it! How cool is that! #Japan #Traveller #Exploring

🌟 Discover Why DAISO Beauty is Trending in Korea! 🌟 The Korean beauty market is shifting towards affordable, high-quality products, with DAISO leading the way. Amid economic downturns, DAISO’s cost-effective beauty items and strategic brand collaborations are winning over budget-conscious consumers. Positive social media reviews further boost DAISO Beauty’s popularity, reflecting a growing trend towards practical and budget-friendly consumption. https://lnkd.in/gF-YXDgi

Drop shipping offers a low-risk, cost-effective way to start an online business by eliminating the need for inventory management. However, reaching Japanese suppliers can be challenging due to language barriers and cultural differences. With Synergy Focus's professional services, you can seamlessly connect with top Japanese suppliers, ensuring clear communication and successful partnerships. Here are some reputable Japanese suppliers that support global drop shipping: 1. ZenMarket - Wide range of products including fashion and electronics. 2. Rakuten Global Market - Diverse products from various sellers. 3. From Japan - Fashion, electronics, and collectibles. 4. Japantrendshop - Gadgets and unique Japanese items. 5. Tokyo Otaku Mode - Anime and Japanese pop culture merchandise. Unlock the potential of your drop shipping business with Synergy Focus and build strong, reliable connections with Japanese suppliers. Contact us to learn more about our services! #DropShipping #Ecommerce #JapaneseSuppliers #TranslationServices #SynergyFocus

The New Year tradition of buying 'fukubukuro' or lucky bags, is a much-anticipated activity embraced by shoppers in Japan. 'Fukubukuro' contain an unseen assortment of heavily discounted goods, with stores often opening early and shoppers queuing outside. While also providing fun, 'fukubukuro' are an important part of the tradition of 'ōsōji' – the annual Japanese custom of cleaning and tidying which takes place during December to start the new year afresh. Learn more about Japan's passion for 'fukubukuro' here: https://bit.ly/48KmCeN